“Education is the great equalizer in society. It can be the thing that lifts (students) out of their predicaments - they could be first generation immigrants, it could be poverty, or overcoming the stereotypes associated with race and ethnicity.”

“The public high school needs to be all things to all people. We have to provide the challenge for those who have to option of private school. At the same time we need to serve the needs of those who don't.”